Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken Recipe for Meal prep
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Slow cooker salsa chicken is the kind of meal that practically makes itself. With just chicken and your favorite salsa, you get a tender, juicy dish that works for tacos, burritos, salads, or even on its own. There is no need for complicated prep or extra steps, just toss everything in, let it cook, and enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort. It is a simple way to keep dinner stress-free while still serving something delicious.
I wasn’t sure how good this would be the first time I made it. Chicken and salsa, that is it? But as soon as I smelled the chicken simmering in the slow cooker, I knew it was going to be my new go-to. My husband had it at a friend’s house and immediately asked me to recreate it, and now it is a staple in our home.
Whether I need a quick weeknight dinner, an easy meal prep solution, or a dish to bring to a gathering, this recipe always comes through. Just set it up, let it cook, and enjoy a flavorful meal without any hassle.
Table of Contents (click to view)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for weekly meals: Cook once and enjoy flavorful, ready-to-eat chicken throughout the week.
- Great for any gathering: Whether it is a weeknight dinner, a party with friends, or a laid-back gathering, this dish fits any occasion.
- Minimal effort required: With just two simple ingredients and a slow cooker, this recipe practically makes itself. No need for chopping, dicing, or extra prep.
- Make it your own: Add seasonings, mix in extra ingredients, or adjust the spice level to create a dish that fits your taste.
- Endless ways to enjoy it: Use it in tacos, sandwiches, salads, or even soups. This recipe is incredibly flexible and works however you like it.
How to Make Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
Slow cooker salsa chicken is one of those recipes that’s almost too easy to be true, yet it delivers incredible flavor every time. I love how I can toss everything into the slow cooker, go about my day, and return to tender, perfectly cooked chicken ready to serve. It is a simple way to get a homemade meal on the table while getting other things done.
Want to give it a try? Scroll down for the printable recipe card with all the ingredients, measurements, and step-by-step instructions!
Ingredients You Need
- Chicken breast: Skinless, boneless chicken breasts are the easiest option since there are no bones to deal with, but any cut of chicken works just as well.
- Salsa: This is where all the flavor comes from, adding the perfect balance of tang, spice, and zest. Choose your favorite jarred salsa, whether mild, medium, or spicy, or go for a homemade version if you prefer fresh ingredients like I do – homemade salsa ranchera is perfect for this recipe!
Step-By-Step Instructions
Making slow cooker salsa chicken takes just five minutes of prep before the slow cooker does all the work. Simply add the ingredients, let it cook, then shred and serve. The result is tender, flavorful chicken that can be used in so many ways. Just follow the three simple steps below for a delicious, fuss-free meal!
Step 1: Cook the chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the salsa on top. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 6 hours until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
Step 2: Shred and combine
Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir everything together so the meat absorbs all the salsa and stays juicy and flavorful.
Step 3: Serve
Enjoy the chicken right away or let it cool and store it for later meals. For a delicious meal, scoop the chicken into warm tortillas, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, squeeze some lime juice on top, and add chunks of creamy avocado for extra flavor.
Substitutions
Slow cooker salsa chicken is as simple as it gets with just two ingredients. If you want to change things up or use what you already have, there are plenty of easy swaps. Here are some great alternatives to try!
- Chicken breast: For a richer, juicier option, swap chicken breast for chicken thighs. Both bone-in and boneless, skinless thighs work well, and if using bone-in, the sauce will develop an even deeper flavor.
- Salsa: Try smoky chipotle salsa for heat, mango or pineapple salsa for a touch of sweetness, or salsa verde for a tangy twist. Pico de gallo also works as a fresh and vibrant alternative.
Variations
Slow cooker salsa chicken is a dish that never gets boring because you can easily switch up the flavors to fit your taste. You can make it richer, add a hint of sweetness, or turn up the heat. Here are some of my favorite ways to change things up:
- Replace half of the salsa with your favorite BBQ sauce for a tangy, smoky flavor that pairs well with rice, sandwiches, or wraps.
- Spice lovers can swap in a hot salsa and add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring some extra heat to the dish.
- Make it heartier by tossing in cooked corn, black beans, diced onions, and bell peppers. Adding them in the last 30 minutes keeps their texture just right.
- For a rich, velvety texture, stir in cream cheese or sour cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking. If you’re using the chicken for tacos or quesadillas, mix in a cup of Mexican blend cheese for an extra cheesy touch.
Expert Tips
- Defrost before cooking: For safe and even cooking, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before placing it in the slow cooker. Starting with frozen chicken can affect the texture and cook time.
- Avoid overcooking: Chicken breast can dry out if left too long in the slow cooker, so stick to the recommended times for the best, most tender results.
- Boost the seasoning: While salt and pepper are great basics, adding garlic, onion, and chili powders or a taco seasoning blend can give the chicken even more depth of flavor.
- Pick the right salsa: Since salsa is the main source of flavor, using a high-quality one will make a big difference. A good salsa keeps the chicken juicy and gives it a more vibrant taste.
How to Store This Recipe
Let the salsa chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to four days or freeze it for up to a month. When ready to eat, reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
There are endless ways to enjoy slow cooker salsa chicken. Enjoy it with chips and tomatillo avocado guacamole for a satisfying snack, or serve it over beans and rice or low-carb cauliflower rice for a filling meal. It also makes a delicious topping for fresh salads.
Keeping a batch on hand is perfect for quick and easy meal prep. Throw it together with tostadas, nachos, burritos, quesadillas, casseroles, soups, stuffed peppers, and more whenever you need them.
More easy Dinner Recipes To Try
- Cheeseburger skillet
- Slow cooker beef and broccoli
- Philly cheesesteak casserole
- Italian beef and cauliflower rice skillet
- Crack chicken
If you try this slow cooker salsa chicken, I would love to hear your thoughts! Your reviews and 5-star ratings mean so much and help others find and enjoy this recipe too.
2-Ingredient Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breast boneless and skinless
- 16 ounces salsa
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the salsa on top. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 6 hours until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
- Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir everything together so the meat absorbs all the salsa and stays juicy and flavorful.
- Enjoy the chicken right away or let it cool and store it for later meals. For a delicious meal, scoop the chicken into warm tortillas, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, squeeze some lime juice on top, and add chunks of creamy avocado for extra flavor.
Notes
- For safe and even cooking, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before placing it in the slow cooker.
- Chicken breast can dry out if left too long in the slow cooker, so stick to the recommended times for the best, most tender results.
- Adding garlic, onion, and chili powders or a taco seasoning blend can give the chicken even more depth of flavor.
- Since salsa is the main source of flavor, using a high-quality one will make a big difference.
Nutrition & Macros
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